Angela (Dahuy) Choi

What separates Valpo’s direct-admit bachelor of science in nursing program from the rest? For alumna Angela (Dahuy) Choi ’19, it was her faculty mentors who never put the nurse she was destined to become before the blossoming individual she already was.

“One thing that really separates Valpo is how all of the professors are willing to work with each student’s schedule… My advice for prospective BSN students would be to really get to know [them],” Angela says. “All the faculty members in the College of Nursing and Health Professions are phenomenal. They’re always willing to help each and every one of their students.”

The guidance of her faculty mentors not only helped Angela flourish in Valpo’s reputationally rigorous nursing program, but also made room for her other interests. On top of her BSN studies, Angela pursued a minor in Spanish and participated in the University orchestra – meaning that even as a nursing student, she never had to choose between her diverse passions. Instead, she merely had to connect the dots. “Being a student in the College of Nursing and Health Professions didn’t stop me from getting involved at Valpo,” she adds – or in the field itself.

Throughout her time at Valpo, Angela was a part of Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing, an e-board member of Valpo’s Student Nurses Association, and a nursing program ambassador for newly admitted students. She found fulfillment in the field as a nurse extern at the University of Chicago, and lended her light to our greater Valparaiso community as a student medical assistant at HealthLinc Community Health Center. Now, as a NICU registered nurse at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, we know she’s putting her vocation into action by leading and making a difference for every patient.

“Valpo’s College of Nursing and Health Professions really emphasizes a holistic approach of care. Every class has us focusing on [the patient’s] mental health and looking at the patient as a person and not as a disease,” Angela says. “[Valpo nursing teaches] that health isn’t just about a single individual – it’s a community. I believe that what I will be doing will make an impact on the world.”

We are so proud of all Angela has accomplished in our nationally recognized program and hope she continues to discover joy as a vital servant leader.